National Journal: Presidential Power Rankings

“Nobody doubts Bachmann’s fundraising prowess, or her ability to attract top campaign talent, as we’ve seen lately. But the question persists: Does she possess the necessary gravitas to run with the big dogs?”

Rank: 4

Chris Cillizza: The Fix blog, Washington Post

“Bachmann has a real chance at winning the Iowa caucuses — she and Pawlenty have to be viewed as the frontrunners at the moment — and, unlike other social conservative candidates of the past, will have the campaign cash to potentially capi­tal­ize on an Iowa victory.”